Category Archives: Self-improvement

Daughters of the American Revolution

When I confirmed that my daughter could sing the National Anthem at a local Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) event, I didn’t fully grasp the significance or impact it would have on me. I knew nothing about the DAR organization, and the event was scheduled just four days after Election Day. The Kushkushkee TrailContinueContinue reading “Daughters of the American Revolution”

The Commonwealth of Neighborly Love

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (The Keystone State) Pennsylvania, my home state, is referred to as a commonwealth, not a state. There is no practical difference between a commonwealth and a state in the United States. The term “commonwealth” historically referred to an organized political community. This choice reflects Pennsylvania’s colonial history and the desire toContinueContinue reading “The Commonwealth of Neighborly Love”

The Fear of Freedom

It’s natural for people to want to be enslaved because they don’t have the courage to be free. Freedom is scary. It is much easier to conform to the status quo. For our own self-esteem and well-being, we must reject all forms of enslavement and strive for independence. Genuine freedom is achieved when you embraceContinueContinue reading “The Fear of Freedom”

The Problem of Ordinary

Feeling ordinary is a common experience, but it’s important to remember that everyone has the potential to lead an extraordinary life. This concept is echoed throughout the Bible, which recounts the stories of many seemingly ordinary individuals who achieved remarkable things by placing their faith in God’s plan for them. They embraced the belief thatContinueContinue reading “The Problem of Ordinary”

Perfectly Imperfect

Jarah’s 11th Birthday Cake Featuring Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon There is something profoundly beautiful about sincerely acknowledging our imperfections. Recognizing that we are all imperfect should not diminish the standard of perfection we aspire to. Instead, it should motivate us to cultivate the “fruit of the Spirit” qualities: love, joy, peace, patience,ContinueContinue reading “Perfectly Imperfect”

Versus v. Verses

One of my favorite episodes of “Seinfeld” is The Opposite (S5:E22 – May 19, 1994). In the episode, George Costanza turns his life around by doing the opposite of what he would usually do. George: Every decision I’ve ever made in my entire life has been wrong. My life is the complete opposite of everthing I wantContinueContinue reading “Versus v. Verses”

Adversity. Friend or Foe?

Adversity is an inevitable part of life. While we can’t avoid or control it, we can choose how we respond. Our reactions to challenges can either build our character or diminish our spirit. Adversity can be a powerful team builder when responded to constructively. Everyone has a role and a job to do. If oneContinueContinue reading “Adversity. Friend or Foe?”

Conflict Reconciliation

Conflict is a serious disagreement or argument, typically a protracted one. Reconciliation is the restoration of friendly relations. Conflict reconciliation is when we can walk hand in hand without seeing eye to eye. It is when we can agree to disagree in a peaceful, friendly manner. It’s when conflict can be labeled as healthy becauseContinueContinue reading “Conflict Reconciliation”